"Number 3 Son" Remembers Nona Beamer

      Neil J. Kaho'okele Hannahs, PBS Hawaii's Board Chair, was a kid from the rural town of Ma'ili on Oahu's leeward coast, when he got to know the late cultural educator and treasure, Nona Beamer.

    He shares the story in a remembrance written for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs' current issue of Ka Wai Ola.

    The story goes back to when Aunty Nona was teaching at the Kamehameha Schools in Kapalama. Neil and her sons Keola and Kapono Beamer were students and friends at Kamehameha.

    Neil writes, "It was a long commute (from Ma'ili) with a 5 a.m. start in the days before H-1. Extra-curricular activities often left me looking for a place to sleep in town. By then, Aunty Nona had moved with the boys into faculty housing on the grounds of Bishop Museum. They graciously took me in. Their apartment became my second home, and Aunty Nona affectionately dubbed me #3 son. We became and continue to be family."

      Years later, Neil's daughter Lihau would have an opportunity to oli (chant) for Aunty Nona. Aunty gave Lihau feedback in an encouraging note employing a bit of shorthand a la today's text messagers.

      "Dear Lihau--how pleased I was 2 hear your fine chant. Your voice is very good--clear & pleasant. I hope U will keep up w/your chanting. You have a talent for it. Don't rush yourself--breathe deeply and sustain your tones," Aunty Nona wrote.

        Here's my favorite part: "Think about the meaning of your words & your heart will overflow in your voice."

        She continued, "This will give you great understanding & your voice will reflect your love. Much love 2 U dear & 2 the family. Come C me anytime!"

        Aunty passed away April 10 at age 84. Neil gives a wonderful account of her accomplishments and what she has meant to Hawaii. You can find it at oha.org/kawaiola in the He Ho'omana'o section.

        We certainly wish we could C Aunty anytime.